Wolf Pack encouraged to train year-round

  • Published
  • By Benny Miguel
  • 8th Force Support Squadron Fitness Center Director
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Being members of the U.S. Air Force, we are held to high fitness standards.

Since the beginning of July this year, I've seen an increase in group exercise participation. This tells me that our Air Force members are taking fitness seriously and people are beginning to realize working out one to three times per week just does not cut it.

Let's look at building speed to reduce run times, for example. To build speed, you need to train in intervals. That means you cannot lollygag when you are out running. Develop a plan and stick to it.

A helpful hint in getting started right is to know what to do and how to start. Following are some common guidelines to follow when starting a new exercise program. If you need assistance, use available resources like the health and wellness center or the fitness center staff. They can guide you in the right direction.

If you are male and older than 35 or female and over 40, or have any pre-existing health concerns, please see your doctor to receive medical clearance to participate in exercise.

When choosing an activity, be sure to consider the availability of facilities and weather conditions. If you think you can be more productive indoors, work out indoors. Others prefer to exercise outdoors and get more out of it.

If possible, exercise at the same time each day. This helps develop a pattern and habit and will eventually become a natural part of your day.

Select an activity you enjoy. Try not to be magnetized by television ads or magazines that promise results. Don't do something because it is the most popular activity. You are more likely to stick with an activity if it's something you enjoy.

If you enjoy having people around you, then join a class or form your own group. The fitness center offers a variety of classes from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. every Monday to Friday. Recently, the fitness center opened a specialized training room. The room can accommodate small groups to perform Total Resistance Exercise workouts, functional training or CrossFit training.

Finally, when working out with a partner, be sure to choose someone with a similar fitness level. Remember, it's your fitness level you should be concerned about, not keeping up with others.

Good luck on your next Air Force physical training test!